The Importance of Andrew Thomas to the Giants
Photo Courtesy of Big Blue View
As the New York Giants start out 2-0 for the first time since 2016, a key reason for this unexpected start is the play of left tackle Andrew Thomas.
Andrew Thomas was selected fourth overall in the 2020 NFL Draft. At the time, this pick raised some questions and many “draft insiders” graded Thomas as their fourth best offensive tackle, but he was the first taken. Many Giants fans also were not happy with the pick and wanted a different tackle or Isaiah Simmons. Jedrick Wills Jr, Mekhi Becton, and Tristan Wirfs were the names at tackle mentioned ahead of Thomas.
Thomas’ play his rookie year reinforced these concerns and many fans and media personalities labeled him as a “bust.” He led all offensive lineman in 2020 with 10 sacks allowed. This is definitely not a category you want to lead the league in.
As people were quick to call Thomas a bust, he responded with a strong 2021 season. He only allowed two sacks last year and Pro Football Focus graded him 78.9 which is very good. He even caught a touchdown pass last year, which was more than wide receivers Kenny Golladay and Kadarius Toney. The Giants offensive line struggled mightly last year outside of Thomas and they decided to use the seventh overall pick on right tackle Evan Neal out of Alabama.
Heading into the 2022 NFL season, Thomas had massive expectations and the Giants named him a first time captain. So far through two weeks, Thomas has been arguably the best offensive lineman in the league. He has zero penalties, zero sacks allowed, and allowed four pressures. Pro Football Focus even rates Thomas the highest in the league at 89.9. He has also excelled in run-blocking as he helped Saquon Barkley lead the league in rushing so far with 236 yards.
As the Giants offensive line has overall struggled again so far in 2022, the dominance and leadership shown by Andrew Thomas has allowed the offensive some ability to operate. The Giants are going to need his strong play to continue if they want to build on this 2-0 start.
